Paragon News

Paragon National Bank today announced that Napoleon L. Cassibry III has stepped down from his role as Chairman of the Board of Directors, effective March 19. Cassibry had served as Board Chair since the bank’s inception in January, 2005. Replacing him as Chairman is Craig L. Weiss, who is also one of the original board members for the bank.

“We can’t thank Nap enough for his nine years of service as Board Chair. He has been a great leader, and an instrument of growth for the bank throughout his years of service.” said Robert Shaw, Chief Executive Officer at Paragon National Bank. “At the same time, we are thrilled to have Craig stepping into the role. He, too, has been a big part of our success, and his vision and leadership will position us well for future growth.”

Cassibry, who is a Senior Vice President of Vining Sparks, IBG, LP where he as worked since 1983, will continue to serve as a board member, and as Chairman of the Asset/Liability committee. The move will allow him to focus more on his travels and other personal endeavors.

“I couldn’t be more pleased with the direction of the bank, and have enjoyed my time chairing the board,” said Cassibry. “With the changes we’ve made to the board, the realignment of responsibilities, and my own busy travel schedule, now seemed like the perfect time to step into a less demanding role. At the same time, I’m proud of the accomplishments of the bank thus far, and pleased with how this move positions us for the future.”

Weiss is a partner at Tower Ventures, one of the largest privately held cellular tower companies in the U.S. with close to 600 towers across 33 states. He also owns and serves as CEO of Central Defense Security and Central Defense Staffing, which provide security and staffing services to a variety of industries in Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas and Texas.

“Nap certainly leaves some big shoes to fill, but I’m looking forward to the challenge,” said Weiss. “The past four or five years in the banking industry have been extremely interesting, and we’re all excited for how Paragon is positioned moving into the future.”